In the aftermath of a serious wreck, life can quickly start to feel overwhelming. Between unexpected medical bills, painful injuries, and never-ending accident-related paperwork, you probably have a lot on your plate. Naturally, summoning up the mental energy to start developing a rock-solid strategy for your personal injury claim can feel like a daunting prospect.
Thankfully, a skilled personal injury lawyer can grab the reins, handling the logistics of your truck accident case so that you can focus on your recovery. However, there are still a few steps you can take that might help strengthen your claim.
Let’s take a look at some of these strategies in closer detail:
1. Seek Medical Treatment Immediately
While you might feel fine, it’s possible that you suffered an impact injury that is yet to manifest symptoms. Untreated, many serious conditions can lead to life-threatening health complications, resulting in thousands of dollars in avoidable medical bills. As such, you should always schedule a doctor’s visit after a wreck as soon as possible. Not only will this ensure that you receive the treatment you need, but taking this important step could also help prevent disputes during proceedings.
If, for instance, you waited for weeks until after the accident to undergo a comprehensive medical assessment, the insurer may have room to argue that you suffered your injuries in a different incident as the date of your doctor’s visit doesn’t correlate with the day of the accident. Alternatively, the insurance company might argue that you failed in your responsibility to take sufficient measures to mitigate damages, potentially leaving you on the hook for some of your losses.
2. Lay Low on Social Media
From political debates to restaurant reviews to sharing holiday snaps, social media websites have become one of the primary ways many of us stay connected to the rest of the world. While these platforms make it easier than ever to stay in touch with friends and family—and make new connections —they can also leave you at risk of compromising your personal injury claim after an accident.
The insurer may begin monitoring your online profiles for any posts, pictures, or even “check ins” that could be used as evidence to devalue or deny your claim. For instance, images of you lazing on the beach just a few days after the wreck, could be used to argue that your condition isn’t as serious as you are claiming as you are still able to lead a normal life. In most situations, it’s best to deactivate your accounts for the duration of proceedings. Not only will taking this step remove the temptation to post, but it will also render many—if not all—your posts inaccessible to the claims adjuster.
3. Take Your Recovery Seriously
If your doctor has told you to book time off work to let your injuries heal, it’s important to heed their instructions. While you might think they are being overly cautious, if the insurer finds out that you deviated from your treatment plan, you could face disputes during proceedings. As such, whether it’s taking certain prescription medications, attending follow-ups, or just resting up until you’ve been given the all-clear, you should always follow your healthcare providers’ orders.
Discuss Your Case with a Texas Truck Accident Attorney
Were you seriously hurt in an accident caused by another driver’s negligence or recklessness? Turn to the legal team at Hilliard Martinez Gonzales LLP.
Through the years, we have helped our clients secure millions of dollars in compensation. From investigating the wreck and building your claim to providing tenacious representation from the first day until the last, we are with you every step of the way. Contact us today at 1-800-334-3298 or send us a message HERE to request a free case assessment with a Texas truck accident attorney.